New: The Trump administration's guidelines for "opening up America again." Federal Help: Paycheck Protection Program Under the CARES Act The Paycheck Protection Program will encourage businesses with fewer than 500 employees to retain workers and maintain wages through forgivable loans. Businesses will apply for the loans through their banks. Here's more on PPP: An application form is here. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has a guide (PDF) on who is eligible, what documents businesses must provide, how much you can borrow, terms and more. The U.S. Treasury Department has its own fact sheet. More information for borrowers is here. Startup Junkie has its own quick guide to the PPP here. You can sign up for Small Business Administration email alerts here. Federal Reserve's Main Street Lending Program The Federal Reserve launched a $600 billion lending program to provide liquidity to small- and medium-sized businesses hurt by COVID-19. The Main Street Lending Program offers 4-year loans to companies with up to 10,000 employees or with revenues less than $2.5 billion. Hogan Taylor LLP has a website about the program here. The Federal Reserve has posted fact sheet here, including term sheets and related documents. Internal Revenue Service The IRS has launched the Employee Retention Credit, designed to encourage businesses to keep employees on their payroll. The refundable tax credit is 50 percent of up to $10,000 in wages paid by an eligible employer whose business has been financially affected by COVID-19. The U.S. Senate Committee on Finance has a FAQ document on the credit available here. SBA Debt Relief The SBA will pay the principal and interest of current 7(a) loans for a period of six months and of new 7(a) loans issued prior to Sept. 27, 2020. The 7(a) program offers loan amounts up to $5 million to small businesses. Uses of the loan proceeds include working capital; expansion/renovation; new construction; the purchase of land or buildings; the purchase of equipment and/or fixtures; lease-hold improvements; refinancing debt for compelling reasons; seasonal line of credit; inventory; or starting a business. SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan The Small Business Administration is offering Economic Injury Disaster Loan applications. Small-business owners and nonprofits are eligible to apply online for a low-interest loan due to the coronavirus. The program provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million. SBA Express Bridge Loans The Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program allows small businesses that have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 with less paperwork. These loans can provide economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they're experiencing. They can be a term loan or used to bridge the gap while applying for a direct SBA Economic Injury Disaster loan. If a small business has an urgent need for cash while waiting for a decision and disbursement on an Economic Injury Disaster Loan, it may qualify for an SBA Express Disaster Bridge Loan. You'll find an Express Bridge Loan Lender via SBA's Lender Match Tool or by connecting to the Little Rock District Office of the SBA. You can also contact the SBA disaster assistance customer service center at (800) 659-2955 or via email with questions. More on SBA Resources & Loans America's Small Business Development Centers has created a new spreadsheet that compares all currently available SBA programs, including the EIDL (Economic Injury) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). You can access it here. Federal Rescue Plan: CARES The president signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on March 27. The $2.2 trillion relief package will provide loans to small businesses, direct financial checks to individuals, expand unemployment insurance and much more. Read a summary of the key provisions of the bill here. And here is a summary for restaurants, courtesy of the National Restaurant Association. Families First Coronavirus Response Act The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) covers the requirements to provide two weeks of paid sick leave (EPSLA) and the expansion of the Family Medical Leave Act (EFMLEA) to cover child care needs, with a paid leave requirement for this new qualifying event. The U.S. Department of Labor has added resources and guidance for the act and other rules around COVID-19 and the workplace. Also: Here's the temporary rule for the FFCRA. Here's a poster about the FFCRA for workplaces to display. Here's a Labor Department Q&A about the FFCRA. State Support: Quick Action Loan Program Gov. Asa Hutchinson has created a $12 million Quick Action Loan Program. Through this, eligible companies may apply for a loan or loan guaranty of up to $250,000. Direct lending is also available. Small- to medium-sized companies that are in the supply chain of essential goods and services, including health care, food manufacturing and logistics, will be prioritized. You can contact the AEDC about this program here, via email or by phone at (501) 682-1121 or toll-free at (800) ARKANSAS. The AEDC also has a website set up specifically related to COVID-19. Other Resources: Arkansas Community Foundation The Arkansas Community Foundation has created a COVID-19 Relief Fund to direct resources to Arkansas nonprofits disproportionately affected by the coronavirus and its economic fallout. Click here to apply for the grants the foundation is awarding. The Blue & You Foundation The Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas is opening its "Rapid-Response COVID Relief" grant process to award up to $1.7 million in grants to nonprofits that have been affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Applications will be received online only here. Applicants may request grants ranging from $5,000 to $150,000. Applications will be reviewed and funding decisions will be made on a weekly basis. Grants not approved immediately each week will be held for consideration for funding later Delta Dental of Arkansas Delta Dental of Arkansas is offering assistance to dental clinics and nonprofits helping commuities during the COVID-19 outbreak. Both efforts are backed by a combined $6.5 million. The company's "Advance Receipts Program" is for Arkansas dental practices that participate in any of Delta Dental's networks. Practices could receive up to five weekly advances each equal to 40% of the average weekly Delta Dental clinical reimbursement payments made to the practice's Tax Identification Number during 2019. The maximum advance amount to any one TIN will not exceed $40,000. Apply here beginning on April 1, 2020. The company is also offering a total of $500,000 in grants to Arkansas nonprofits providing assistance or services to address immediate COVID-19-related needs. The limit is $10,000 per organization. Apply here beginning on April 1, 2020. NextSeed Community Bridge Notes NextSeeed is offering a special financing product for qualified small businesses to use in a public offering. The NextSeed Community Bridge Note (CBN) will leverage Regulation Crowdfunding rules to provide small businesses with an alternative and efficient way to raise flexible, lower cost, lower fee financing. The NextSeed CBNs are designed to meet the working capital needs of small businesses during and in the immediate aftermath of COVID-19. More information is available here. Truist Financial Corp. Truist Financial Corp., the parent company of McGriff Insurance Services in Little Rock, is committing $1 million to LiftFund to support small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in communities in eight states, including Crittenden County in Arkansas. LiftFund is a community development financial institution headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. The money will fund grants ranging from $5,000-$25,000 for operating capital shortages and critical needs. Small businesses in Crittenden County with fewer than 10 full-time employees and that have annual gross revenue of no more than $1 million can apply for the grants online. University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service The UA Cooperative Extension Service has set up this website, which pulls together resources for agriculture, families and communities. It includes information about economic impacts on livestock, row crops, specialty crops, agritourism and public policy. There's also resources for restaurants, produce growers, food banks, farmers markets, farm safety and food safety. Consumers can find information on reducing expenses, stimulus money, personal finance and more. Better Business Bureau The Better Business Bureau has set up BBB.org/coronavirus to answer questions and provide resources for small businesses. Among the topics: ► Advice for Charities and Donors Seeking to Address Coronavirus ► Business Tips: How to Navigate the Coronavirus Crisis ► A Coronavirus Checklist for Businesses ► Sample Telework Policy for Employers, Business Preparedness Checklist for Business BKD CPAs & Advisors BKD has created its own website with links to a host of articles and resources. Some resources are grouped by industry. They are: ► Construction & Real Estate ► Health Care ► Financial Services ► Nonprofits ► Higher Education ► Public Sector ► Manufacturing & Distribution Signs for Posting at All Businesses The governor's proclamation (EO – 20 – 13 (3) f) requires all Arkansas businesses to post signs at facility entrances. The State Chamber/AIA created a sign here that businesses can print and post. DDF Consulting's Pandemic Risk Readiness Checklist DDF Consulting offers this checklist for financial institutions. It was developed based on CDC guidance and feedback from community bankers. It's designed as a starting point and should be tailored to each bank's situation. State Department of Health The Arkansas Department of Health has issued guidance for several businesses, available here. Those include social distancing recommendations for retailers. Webinars The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center is hosting a series of COVID-19-related webinars that include: Applying for the state Quick Action Loan Program Budgeting During An Economic Downturn Access to SBA Programs and Other Funding Options You can see its complete list of webinars and register for them here. The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce is holding its weekly COVID-19 webinar at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 23. It includes Chamber CEO Randy Zook and Dr. Joe Thompson, CEO of the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement. You can register here via Zoom. City, Local Support Little Rock A&P Sales Tax-Related Relief Little Rock's Advertising & Promotion Commission and Convention & Visitors Bureau are offering hotels and restaurants some relief on A&P sales tax remittances. Businesses have access to a Covid-19 Application for Relief from Penalty and Interest (available here) for the taxable periods covering February, March, April and May 2020. The Covid-19 Application for Deferment and Installment Payment Agreement (available here) offers the three-month deferment option. All applications are online at LittleRock.com/tax, or businesses can reach Kasey Summerville of LRCVB at via email or by calling (501) 370-3317. University of Arkansas Small Business & Technology Development Center/Northwest Arkansas Council The new program provides free services to northwest Arkansas organizations to help them with access to U.S. Small Business Administration and other federal, state and local resources. Some services are available to nonprofits that meet the SBA Office of Disaster Assistance funding requirements. The services, provided remotely by phone or by video conferencing, will include: Assistance with loan applications Financial reviews One-on-one counseling Market research Educational outreach Business planning Liaison to government agencies and lending institutions You can get more information on this program here. Women's Foundation of Arkansas The WFA has established Women Owned, a fund to help women-owned small businesses experiencing hardship due to COVID-19 through $5,000 grants. The WFA wants the fund, started with money from WFA's own grant pool and the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation, WFA's goal is for the fund to reach $100,000 — enough provide assistance to 20 women-owned small businesses in Arkansas. Applications for the first round of funding are open now and will close at noon on April 13. Grantees will be notified by April 17. You can apply here. You can donate to the fund here. Source: https://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/130535/support-for-small-businesses-slammed-by-covid-19?utm_source=enews_042020&utm_medium=email&utm_content=daily-report&utm_campaign=newsletter&enews_zone=3815

LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson announced Saturday the creation of a task force to help the state recover economically from restrictions that were put in place to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. The task force will be led by Steuart Walton, the grandson of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Walmart is based in Bentonville, Arkansas. The group will focus on helping small businesses because “that’s where we want to be able to get back to work,” Hutchinson said at a news conference. During the pandemic, the governor did not issue a statewide stay-at-home order but imposed other restrictions that closed businesses such as gyms and casinos. He also prohibited sit-down service at restaurants and bars. On Friday, Hutchinson said he hoped to lift some restrictions imposed on businesses during the pandemic if Arkansas meets the criteria in a three-phase plan laid out Thursday by the Trump administration for states to reopen their economies. The task force, which will include representatives from retail, agriculture and churches, will work to “put this economy in higher gear, but to do it in a way that’s consistent with public health requirements and that gives the public confidence,” Hutchinson said. The task force will hold its first meeting next week. State health officials reported Saturday that one more person has died in Arkansas after contracting the coronavirus, bringing the state’s death toll to 38. Another 44 residents have tested positive for the virus as the total number of cases reached at least 1,739. For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death. Members of the Governor's Task Force Steuart Walton, Runway Group (Chair) Wes Ward, Department of Agriculture Mike Preston, Department of Commerce Stacy Hurst, Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Ted Thomas, Public Service Commission Randy Zook, Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce Sylvester Smith, National Federation of Independent Business Joey Dean, Associated General Contractors of Arkansas Annemarie Jazic, Dillard’s Inc. Charlie Spakes, Arkansas Grocers and Retail Merchants Association Montine McNulty, Arkansas Hospitality Association Kelly Eichler, Indoor Recreational Facilities Deke Whitbeck, Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation Lance Taylor, Arkansas Activities Association Hunter Yurachek, University of Arkansas Shannon Newton, Arkansas Trucking Association Charles Frazier, Rock Region METRO Lorrie Trogden, Arkansas Bankers Association Dr. Sonny Tucker, Arkansas Southern Baptist Convention Bishop Gary Mueller, Arkansas Conference of United Methodists Bishop Michael Mitchell, African Methodist Episcopal Church 12th District Dr. Richard Abernathy, Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators Andy Goodman, Arkansas Independent Colleges and Universities Andrea Henderson, Arkansas Association of Community Colleges Dr. Chuck Welch, Arkansas State University System David Wroten, Arkansas Medical Society Bo Ryall, Arkansas Hospital Association Source: https://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/130909/task-force-to-help-arkansas-economic-recovery-from-covid-19?utm_source=enews_042020&utm_medium=email&utm_content=daily-report&utm_campaign=newsletter&enews_zone=3815

ARunemployment.com is designed to be a memorable resource for people seeking answers to their questions regarding unemployment insurance claims. The Arkansas Division of Workforce Services (ADWS) today launched a new web site designed to provide updated information regarding COVID-19 related unemployment benefits. ARunemployment.com is designed to be a memorable resource for people seeking answers to their questions regarding unemployment insurance claims. The site will include a link to the state’s EZARC website, through which claims can be filed. “We are continually working to improve our resources, processes and functionalities to best serve the people of Arkansas in an efficient manner,” said Dr. Charisse Childers, director of ADWS. “ARunemployment.com is easy to remember and will help eliminate confusion with its simple navigation.” The site, which can be easily accessed on all mobile devices, will also serve as a resource for the media and others who are seeking up-to-date statistics for unemployment in Arkansas. Dr. Childers says that by the end of April, ADWS should have systems in place to begin processing unemployment assistance claims for self-employed Arkansans. In the meantime, ARunemployment.com provides a link for 1099-workers to share email addresses in order to receive weekly updates. To date, more than 7,000 people have submitted their email addresses. “We encourage people filing claims or seeking updates on previously submitted claims to utilize our new web site or call 1-844-908-2178,” said Dr. Childers. The Arkansas Division of Workforce Services is a state agency within the Arkansas Department of Commerce. Source: https://arunemployment.com/updates/state-launches-new-resource-for-up-to-date-unemployment-information/

LITTLE ROCK – Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved Arkansas’s request to use Medicaid funds to temporarily increase the weekly income of long-term services and supports (LTSS) direct-care workers during the COVID-19 public health emergency, Governor Asa Hutchinson announced at a news conference today. On April 8, the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) submitted an emergency state plan amendment and two “Appendix K” amendments to cover services provided under the State Plan and agencies in non-institutional settings for people who get care in their homes and communities. With approval from CMS, DHS will be able to make payments retroactive to April 5, 2020. “CMS’s approval of this request is welcome news for LTSS direct-care workers, who are working long hours to see that our most vulnerable Arkansans are well-cared for during this public health emergency,” Governor Hutchinson said today. “Not only will these funds help ensure continuity of care, the extra pay will alleviate some of the financial stress for the caregivers, who are selflessly serving in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in private homes at increased risk to their own health.” The additional care continuity pay will go to eligible non-physician direct-care workers employed by or contracted with institutional setting providers, such as nursing homes, intermediate care facilities, and assisted living facilities; and agencies in non-institutional settings for people who receive care in their homes and communities. Eligible workers include those who are continuing to provide face-to-face services to this population and include: Registered Nurses Licensed practical nurses Certified nurse aides Personal care aides assisting with activities of daily living under the supervision of a nurse or therapist Home health aides assisting with activities of daily living under the supervision of a nurse or therapist Nursing assistive personnel Direct care workers providing services under home and community-based waiver Intermediate Care Facility direct care staff including those that work for a state-run Human Development Center Assisted Living direct care staff members Hospice service direct care workers Respiratory therapists The weekly care continuity initiative payments are available to direct care workers as follows: A) work 20-39 hours per week--$125.00 B) work 40+ hours per week--$250.00 C) work a regularly planned split shift schedule that overlap weeks that equal or exceed 150 hours per month, not including overtime--$250.00/week If a client has tested positive for COVID-19, the direct care workers in that facility or home and community-based setting, will receive an enhanced payment as follows: A) work 1-19 hours per week--$125.00 B) work 20-39 hours per week--$250.00 C) work 40+ hours per week--$500.00 D) work a regularly planned split shift schedule that overlap weeks that equal or exceed 150 hours per month, not including overtime--$500.00/week The payments will be made to a facility or agency providers over a period of eight (8) weeks beginning the week of April 5, 2020 and ending May 30, 2020. The providers will pass the full net value (gross amount minus applicable taxes) of the payments to the eligible direct care workers. The payments will be available to Medicaid-enrolled providers who employ or contract with LTSS direct care workers. This includes nursing homes, ARChoices providers, Personal Care providers, Area Agencies on Aging, Assisted Living Facilities, Hospice providers, CES waiver providers for supported living services, and agencies in non-institutional settings for people who get care in their homes and communities. “Medicaid is the largest payer source of LTSS, which is why this sector was the focus of this particular part of the waiver,” said DHS Secretary Cindy Gillespie. “In other sectors, especially hospitals and hospital-based providers, Medicaid generally represents the smallest percentage of payment and federal legislation is providing significant targeted relief for hospitals." Governor Hutchinson has also directed that DHS develop a similar care continuity payment package for non-physician direct care workers in hospital settings that can be presented to the state task force overseeing COVID-19- specific funding that the still will receive. DHS will send instructions to the providers on how to submit a claim on behalf of their eligible workers. DHS will update its providers as the situation evolves. Source: https://governor.arkansas.gov/news-media/press-releases/governor-hutchinson-announces-cms-approval-of-additional-pay-for-eligible-ltss-direct-care-workers-due-to-covid-19-emergency

Mike Preston, Arkansas Secretary of Commerce and Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, provides an update on resources and support available for businesses and workers who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the 2020 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). These grants are funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to enhance the competitiveness of the Arkansas specialty crop industry. Specialty crops are defined by USDA as fruits, vegetables, horticulture, floriculture, and tree nuts. Proposals must be submitted by April 8 through this link: Applicants are encouraged to develop projects pertaining to the following issues affecting the specialty crop industry: Enhancing food safety; Improving the capacity of all entities in the specialty crop distribution chain to comply with the requirements of the Food Safety Modernization Act (21 U.S.C. Chapter 27); Investing in specialty crop research, including research to focus on conservation and environmental outcomes; Developing new and improved seed varieties and specialty crops; Pest and disease control; Increasing child and adult nutrition knowledge and consumption of specialty crops; Improving efficiency and reducing costs of distribution systems; and Sustainability. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture uses a two-phase application process for administering the grant funds. Project concept proposals must be submitted by April 8 and outline the project’s goals, tasks, and budget requirements. After all concept proposals are reviewed by an advisory committee, selected projects will be invited to submit detailed project proposals. Only electronic applications will be accepted. The full Request for Applications (RFA) is available here. For additional information, contact Juan Hurtado, Juan.Hurtado@agriculture.arkansas.gov. Source: https://talkbusiness.net/2020/03/specialty-crop-block-grants-available-through-arkansas-department-of-agriculture/

Seventy-seven thousand or more filing for unemployment. A near 9% unemployment rate. Retail sector jobs declining by 16%. Employment in the arts, entertainment and recreation tumbling by 20%. Consumer spending off by 5% or more. That’s the doomsday scenario laid out for the Arkansas economy by University of Arkansas Little Rock economist Michael Pakko in the early wake of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. Some of his peers say it could be worse. “As the impact of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) works its way through the economy, national economic forecasts are showing an increasingly grim outlook. In addition to disruption of world supply chains, the decline in consumer spending associated with social distancing is generating forecasts with significant reductions in aggregate demand that make a recession appear inevitable,” Pakko said. For big and small businesses, these numbers quickly suggest recession levels, and if they’re worse and prolonged, the word “depression” will resurface in American economic circles. Congress is pumping more stimulus and capital into U.S. commerce. That should help, according to many financial experts. Still, the timing and pace of those injections and, of course, the depth and breadth of the coronavirus spread will determine how successfully businesses navigate uncharted waters. For Arkansas banks — most of which would be considered community banks — the necessity to help clients survive this dystopian economic scenario is crucial to the region’s survival. “This could dwarf 9/11 and the financial crisis of 2008-2009 combined,” said one banker in a candid conversation. SAFETY FIRST Before addressing the paths out of financial bedlam, area financial institutions have been doing all they can to protect employees and customers from the coronavirus while keeping doors — or perhaps windows — open for business. In March, the Arkansas Bankers Association announced a statewide push to get bank customers to use drive-thrus, ATMs and online options as many banks in the state closed or limited facilities to walk-in traffic as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. The association stressed that bank services would remain available. There were 87 bank institutions in Arkansas as of Dec. 31, 2019, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC). Assets of all Arkansas banks as of Dec. 31 was $112.86 billion. The industry also employs 27,000 people in the state, according to the ABA. Other actions taken by banks in response to COVID-19 included: • Banks enhancing their cleaning and sanitary practices to help mitigate the potential spread of the virus. • Banks implementing travel restrictions for their staff members. • Many non-essential, non-customer-facing bank employees are being asked to work from home until further notice. • Customers are encouraged to check the financial institution’s website for updates as the situation evolves. “We’re also relying on the CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] for best practices for our associates — things like social distancing, ensuring they wash their hands frequently, limiting travel and staying home if they feel sick,” said Jim Cargill, president and CEO of Arvest Bank in Central, Northeast and Southwest Arkansas. “Additionally, we have ramped up the cleaning that is done by professional cleaning services at our facilities. They are providing deep cleanings on a regular basis.” Bank officials are warning customers against scammers too, noting that no bank official will ask for account numbers, social security numbers, pins, or passwords when contacting a customer via phone, text message or email. THE FINANCIAL IMPACT No one knows how catastrophic the financial hurt could be for local businesses and their employees. Large corporations with sizable balance sheets will be better able to survive significant hits in the short-term. They also have the ability to renegotiate their debt through credit facilities, especially with the easement the Federal Reserve Bank is making available. Congressional action is also spawning new cash flow and debt management opportunities for big and small businesses. The $2.2 trillion package agreed to last week provides funding for small businesses to mitigate layoffs and support payroll through low-interest loans and deferral of employer-matching payroll taxes. Congress is pumping more money into unemployment funding for laid-off workers, and state government is making unemployment claims easier to obtain. The bread and butter for many small businesses — retail shops, restaurants, and service companies like hair salons and barbershops — is their relationship with a local bank. State government has curtailed many of these businesses into suspending operations resulting in no revenue streams for many of these local companies. Gov. Asa Hutchinson and the Arkansas Department of Health are using emergency guidelines to order businesses to limit personal contact or large gatherings by practicing “social distancing.” This form of self-isolation has led to shuttering working hours, remote work, moving operations to take-out or delivery versus in-person or in-store meetings. There have also been some businesses that have been told they must close indefinitely while health officials try to limit the spread of COVID-19. For nearly every business, it has reduced commercial activity significantly. “We’re keeping our products and services available to our customers and closely monitoring developments in Congress and discussing options for customers to meet their changing needs,” said Davy Carter, Northeast Arkansas regional president for Centennial Bank. Carter said there have been conversations with many of the bank’s customers who are trying to determine their options. The Payroll Protection Plan (PPP) and Emergency Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) programs offer multiple options to help small businesses. PPP allows qualifying businesses the opportunity to borrow money through a formula that includes payroll, benefits, lease or mortgage expenses and utilities that could be forgiven if guidelines are followed. The EIDL gives business low-interest loans with long terms for payback – up to 30 years – in some instances, plus an immediately qualifying $10,000 in cash, if approved. PPP will be administered through financial institutions, while EIDL is a straight application through the Small Business Administration (SBA) website. “We are doing everything we can to help determine potential solutions for our customers,” Carter said. Cargill said Arvest is also reaching out to customers and helping them identify options. “Those options include assistance regarding loan payments and/or extensions. We’re also making our customers aware of programs being offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration,” he said. “In regard to some of our customers who are large employers, we are working with them to help them communicate with their employees about available relief options. That includes a special Arvest Assist personal loan with deferred payments for the first four months,” Cargill added. With the coronavirus nowhere near its peak, according to health experts, it is impossible to gauge when there may be a return to normalcy. And that has everyone spooked. “Hunkering down indefinitely is not a long-term plan,” noted one financial analyst. Pakko, the economist, threw out a potential recovery period in his analysis of the COVID-19 impact, but it’s just an educated guess. “The presumed scenario where economic recovery begins by the end of 2020 might prove to be overly optimistic. The declines in consumer spending and income may reinforce one another to create an even more dramatic downturn,” he warned. “The outlook will undoubtedly change as the situation develops, particularly when it comes to the impact of fiscal and monetary policy responses. At present, however, it appears that a dramatic downturn in economic activity over the remainder of 2020 is unavoidable for the nation and Arkansas.” Source: https://talkbusiness.net/2020/04/local-banks-ready-to-band-aid-small-businesses-through-the-coronavirus-crisis/

April 1st is Census Day across the country. The census is the official count of who lives in a place, and it determines the access that communities will have to funding for roads, housing, hospitals, food programs, and more for the next 10 years. Things you need to know about the Census: Determines representation and funding Data drives decisions made at all levels Takes approximately 10 minutes to complete Responses can be submitted online, on the phone, or by mail Your responses are confidential, as required by Title 13 of the U.S. Code There is NOT a citizenship question on the Census Following ways to complete: Online at My2020Census.gov By phone at 844-330-2020 (English) — a list of phone numbers in different languages is available at Census.gov By returning the paper questionnaire, which you should have received by mail Learn more about the 2020 Census and count yourself today at 2020census.gov

Pursuant to the direction of Governor Asa Hutchinson and Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission has established a loan program to provide assistance to businesses affected by the COVID19 outbreak. The program will be funded through an allocation of $4,000,000 from the Governor’s Quick Action Closing Fund, and an additional $3,000,000 from Attorney General Leslie Rutledge’s Consumer Education and Enforcement Fund. The Quick Action Closing Fund allocation will prioritize companies that are in the supply chain of essential goods and services, including healthcare, food manufacturers, and logistics. The allocation from the Attorney General will support small businesses. The program includes both loan guaranties and direct lending to businesses. Features of Quick Action Loan Guaranty: · AEDC will guaranty up to 80% of the principal balance of a loan issued by a lender participating in the program. The amount of AEDC’s guaranty is capped at $250,000. · Borrower must demonstrate that it has been adversely impacted by the health emergency. · Proceeds may be used for working capital, inventory, payroll, and other uses that facilitate the continuation of business operations. · Borrower will be subject to the lender’s customary underwriting and collateral requirements. · Loan amount may be amortized for up to 5 years. · Initial payments may be deferred for up to 90 days at the option of borrower and lender. · Borrower and participating lender must sign loan guaranty agreements with AEDC, which will include job retention requirements for the borrower. Features of Quick Action Direct Loan: • Loans issued directly to borrower by AEDC. Loan amount is capped at $250,000. • Loans are at zero interest and may be amortized for up to two years. • Payments may be deferred for up to 6 months following closing on the loan. • Borrower must demonstrate to AEDC that it has no other satisfactory financing options available to it through commercial lending or through other government programs such as the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. • Borrower must demonstrate that it has been adversely impacted by the health emergency. • Borrower must satisfy AEDC’s financial underwriting requirements. • Borrower must agree to job retention requirements. The Quick Action Loan Program is a discretionary incentive program offered by AEDC. Not all who apply for a loan or loan guaranty will be approved. The information provided is only a general summary of the program features and does not create any obligation by AEDC to provide a guaranty or to fund a loan. AEDC reserves the right to adjust the terms of any loan or guaranty based on the borrower’s individual circumstances. Borrowers may only have one loan.

Governor Asa Hutchinson announced Wednesday (March 18) at least $16 million is being directed to help Arkansas businesses remain open during the economic challenges resulting from COVID-19. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said the ongoing pandemic outbreak of respiratory disease is caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in China. It has now been detected in more than 150 locations internationally, including in the United States. The U.S. has more than 7,000 cases with 108 deaths. To date, there have been more than 179,000 reported cases of coronavirus and more than 7,400 deaths globally. The governor, who spoke during a press conference from the Capitol, said his administration is working with state resources and will be depending on expected federal resources to help families and businesses during this “jolt to the economy.” A big part of that is $12 million allocated from Community Development Block Grant funds to help companies, especially “hospitals and businesses essential to getting over this crisis.” Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston said the list of essential businesses also include those in the supply chain that support critical businesses like food manufacturing and logistics. Another element is releasing $4 million from the Governor’s Quick Action Closing Fund – created to provide cash incentives for businesses expanding or locating operations in Arkansas – to support “bridge loans” to small businesses that need help making payroll and pay other essential costs. The loans can be up to $250,000. Preston also encouraged Arkansas business owners to seek help from the U.S. Small Business Administration. For example, the SBA has an “Economic Injury Disaster Loan” program that allows for working capital loans of up to $2 million to help businesses suffering a temporary loss of revenue during the COVID-19 outbreak. (Link here for other SBA loan options.) Governor Hutchinson also said that there is a child care crisis evolving from the medical pandemic. Already over 800 child care facilities have closed in Arkansas, while 1,200 remain open. Arkansas Department of Human Services Secretary Cindy Gillespie outlined incentives and funding to encourage more of those child care operations to re-open. On Tuesday, Gov. Hutchinson said the Arkansas Department of Commerce will waive the one-week waiting period to seek unemployment insurance. The governor also said the department will waive work-search requirements for 30 days, allowing unemployed to receive benefits without seeking other employment. This exception applies only to those employed by businesses temporarily closed with plans to reopen. The department is also allowing the unemployed to apply for benefits online or by telephone rather than in person to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19. Gov. Hutchinson also said he has asked federal government officials to give states the “maximum amount of flexibility” to use any federal dollars made available through existing and pending programs designed to help businesses nationwide during the COVID-19 outbreak. Actions taken by Congress and the White House to help businesses and households financially impacted by COVID-19 include tax relief, healthcare benefits, and expedited unemployment benefits. The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the “Families First Coronavirus Response Act” that would provide testing, paid emergency leave to qualified employees, increased Medicaid funding and expanded unemployment insurance. The U.S. Senate on Wednesday approved the measure and it now goes to the president’s desk for his signature. U.S. Sens. John Boozman, R-Ark., and Tom Cotton, R-Ark., voted for the act. “We are facing an unprecedented public health challenge. We must deliver necessary resources to combat the coronavirus and support hardworking Americans and families who are facing financial challenges due to this outbreak. Preventing the spread of this disease remains a priority and we know there is more that needs to be done. In the coming days the Senate will be taking further action to craft and pass a comprehensive bill to provide additional assistance directly to the American people and stabilize the economy,” Boozman said in a statement. Link here for a list of state actions in response to COVID-19. Source: https://talkbusiness.net/2020/03/arkansas-to-direct-at-least-16-million-for-businesses-impacted-by-covid-19/

Everyone wants to make sure that those affected by the novel coronavirus are able to get needed medical care and advice, but we must also be smart about how we are doing so in order to protect people who are at high risk for COVID-19. During this public health emergency, many people still need access to care for other illnesses and diseases. Often, these conditions can make these people more vulnerable to contracting COVID-19, and more likely to suffer from severe COVID-19 symptoms. To keep older people and those receiving treatment for other illnesses safe from COVID-19, please do NOT go to a healthcare facility, including your doctor’s office, an urgent care clinic, or the emergency room without calling ahead as this could lead to the spread of COVID-19 to vulnerable people who are seeking care for other illnesses. Instead, here are some of the steps that you can take: Become familiar with the symptoms of COVID-19. Contact your primary care physician to explain your symptoms and medical history to determine if a test is warranted. Use the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) screening tool: UAMS HealthNow is now offering a FREE screening tool. It’s available 24 hours a day and can be accessed from a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or computer. Go to https://uamshealth.com/healthnow/ and click on “Begin Screening.” The tool will guide you regarding your next steps – if any – such as contacting your primary care physician for further evaluation and possible testing for the virus. Call the Arkansas coronavirus hotlines: For children (staffed by Arkansas Children's Hospital): 1-800-743-3616. For adults (staffed by UAMS): 1-800-632-4502. Contact the Arkansas Department of Health at 1-800-803-7847. If you are a MedicareBeneficiary, consider using Telemedicine services. Yesterday, the president announced an expansion of Medicare Telemedicine services to help slow the spread of COVID-19 by enabling people to receive a wider range of healthcare services from their doctors without having to travel to a healthcare facility. For more information, please click HERE. For an FAQ on how to utilize telemedicine, please click HERE. Here is an easy guide to help you decide when you should seek care if you have symptoms of COVID-19. As Arkansans, we certainly know how to care for our neighbors better than anyone, and together we will tackle this virus. Source: https://hill.house.gov/news/email/show.aspx?ID=KZMONQUCUFIAU5A7YAHFQCHANU

CLARKSDALE, MS—The Delta Regional Authority (DRA) Federal Co-Chairman Chris Caldwell announced today DRA is opening the 2020 application cycle for the States’ Economic Development Assistance Program (SEDAP). SEDAP, which provides direct investments into community-based and regional projects that address the DRA’s congressionally mandated four funding priorities, is the main investment tool used by the DRA. All necessary information for application consideration can be found in the 2020 SEDAP Manual. Organizations and communities can apply online at funding.dra.gov. The deadline to submit applications is May 31, 2020, and funds are available to DRA’s footprint of 252 counties and parishes in Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee. “DRA funding provides community and regional investments focusing on our priorities of basic public infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, workforce development, and small business development and entrepreneurship,” said DRA Federal Co-Chairman Chris Caldwell. “We have seen firsthand the positive impact these economic development investments bring to Delta communities and are excited to continue strengthening our communities through these investments in 2020.” Communities and organizations are encouraged to work with their Local Development District (LDD) offices to prepare and submit applications to the DRA. Information on state-specific funding allocations, funding program eligibility requirements, guidelines, and contact information for local development districts are available here. About the Delta Regional Authority The Delta Regional Authority (DRA) is a federal-state partnership created by Congress in 2000 to promote and encourage the economic development of the lower Mississippi River Delta region and Alabama Black Belt. DRA invests in projects supporting transportation infrastructure, basic public infrastructure, workforce training, and business development. DRA’s mission is to help create jobs, build communities, and improve the lives of those who reside in the 252 counties and parishes of the eight-state region.

On September 23, 2019 we lost a valued colleague and friend in John Brunson, Jr. John David Brunson, Jr. began serving the people of Central Arkansas beginning in 1985 and had served as the Director of Workforce Services for the Central Arkansas Workforce Development Area beginning in 2002. During those years, John became the bedrock on which the delivery of workforce services in Central Arkansas was secured. In addition to the 34 years John worked in public service, he also served on many boards and commissions such as the Bradley County High School Alumni Association and the Shorter College Alumni Association. John made a difference in the lives of others and made many contributions to the community, which helped it move forward in numerous ways. Additionally, John played a major role in many of the innovations in change from CETA, JTPA, WIA, and WIOA programs. He participated in many collaborations including the 2017 Promoting Collaboration in Little Rock’s Workforce Development System. Most importantly, John was an articulate and inspiring leader and mentor that made a huge impact on not only the lives of thousands of clients; but, the lives of his co-workers as well. His voice will never leave us, he will always be that quiet voice in the back of our heads when we are struggling over how to handle a difficult situation, developing a new way of implementing change, or just to give us a little comfort. Now, we must move forward in the legacy he left and continue to improve the lives of others. In ending, we would like to send our condolences to the Brunson family. We are wishing you peace, comfort, and lots of love at this time of sorrow. John added life to our days and will be in our hearts always and forever.

"It was time to turn the page and get Mayflower to rise again." MAYFLOWER, Arkansas — A city that has been forced to tear down buildings after three catastrophes in six years got to put up a new building for the entire community as Mayflower cut the ribbon on a new city center. "We've been through so many things in the past few years," said Mayflower Mayor Randy Holland. "It was time to turn the page and get Mayflower to rise again." A minister who gave an invocation spelled out what the city has endured, listing a massive crude oil spill in 2013, a devastating EF-4 tornado in 2014, and massive flooding along the Arkansas River that rose 24 feet above normal. Those catastrophes led to outpourings of support, and after the Pegasus pipeline oil spill, a flood of money from Exxon Mobil and the federal government. When a plan to fund improve the water system fell through, Mayor Holland pushed to have this community center built. "Let's celebrate and take a victory lap and talk about when things work," said Rep. French Hill (R - Arkansas), while applauding the work of the federal Economic Development Administration. "We're grateful to the EDA and their flexibility for letting the mayor do something different with the funds." "I had the opportunity to run across a lot of community leaders. Some of them were better than others," said former governor Mike Beebe, who was in office for both the oil spill and the tornado, pointing to Holland. "All of us who run for office all say we want to do what's best for our people. I gotta tell you in front of all your people, you're one of the best at putting your people first." Holland described the new building, which will have police offices, an economic development center, and space for municipal court meetings as a potential heart for the city. "I've always said it, but I totally believe this. It's not just one person that does this. It's not two. It's all of us together," he said. "It's all of us working together. And you see that we can do things together." Holland and Hill also took the event to announce a long-awaited plan to build an overpass over the railroad tracks and through the city will soon be put out for bids by the state transportation department. Source: https://www.thv11.com/article/news/community/mayflower-uses-funds-from-disaster-relief-to-build-new-city-center/91-9d107440-6dc6-40cc-ab06-c1ef7665280f

WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration (ETA) has announced the availability of up to $29.2 million in demonstration grant funds to expand the impact of workforce development initiatives in the Appalachian and Delta regions through the Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) grant initiative. These grant funds, awarded in consultation with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and Delta Regional Authority (DRA), will focus on rural areas hard hit by economic transition that have recovered slowly.  These grants will be focused on the areas within the Appalachian region and Lower Mississippi (also known as the Delta) region, as defined in 40 U.S.C 14102(a)(1), and in 7 U.S.C. 2009aa(2), respectively. The Department will award WORC grants ranging from $150,000 to $2.5 million. These grants will support the alignment of workforce development with existing strategies and plans for economic development and diversification in rural communities in the Appalachian and Delta regions. Grant projects will provide enhanced training and support activities to dislocated workers (including displaced homemakers), new entrants in the workforce, incumbent workers, and, particularly in grants in the Appalachian region, individuals affected by substance use disorder (i.e. opioids, methamphetamine, heroin, and other substances). Grant applicants must demonstrate that they are serving eligible participants who live and work in the ARC and/or DRA regions. Applicants are encouraged to partner with other organizations serving the proposed community(s), including potential employers, training providers, and community- and faith-based organizations. Eligible applicants for this funding opportunity include state and county governments; city or township governments; special district governments; regional organizations; independent school districts; public/state controlled institutions of higher education; Indian/Native American tribal governments (both Federally Recognized and other than Federally Recognized); Indian/Native American tribally designated organizations; public/Indian housing; nonprofit organizations; private institutions of higher education; tribally controlled colleges and universities (TCCUs); and historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). For additional information on grant eligibility and how to apply for funds, visit http://www.grants.gov. Agency Employment & Training Administration Date June 6, 2019 Release Number 19-954-NAT Contact: Egan Reich Phone Number (202) 693-4960 Email reich.egan@dol.gov Source

The Delta Workforce Program will help train the next generation of workforce, create jobs, and increase economic competitiveness throughout the region. CLARKSDALE, MS – Today, the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) launched the Delta Workforce Program, an initiative designed to support workforce training and education, build long-term community capacity, and increase economic competitiveness across the Mississippi River Delta region and Alabama Black Belt. DRA is committed to investing in communities to support job seekers, incumbent workers, and local industry to foster comprehensive economic development” said DRA Federal Co-Chairman Chris Caldwell. “Through the Delta Workforce Program, we’re working alongside our federal partners to ensure rural communities have access to critical resources in order to strengthen their workforce, create jobs, and improve quality of life across the Delta and Appalachia” In partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Employment and Training Administration (ETA), and the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), approximately $28.5 million in Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) grants will become available in May 2019 to support workforce training and education in rural communities across the Delta and Appalachian regions. To complement the federal partnership, DRA will host two technical assistance workshops, make $1.5 million in grants available in July 2019, and offer post-award technical assistance to grantees. Communities and regions that have been negatively impacted by economic transition and recovered more slowly can apply for resources to help build their workforce pipelines and strengthen their economies. The Delta Workforce Program will help support industry-driven job training and re-employment opportunities, align workforce and economic development strategies, and establish or enhance regionally significant public-private partnerships. “I am proud of the work that the Delta Regional Authority is doing in Alabama, and the launch of the Delta Workforce Program is excellent news,” said Senator Richard Shelby (R-AL). “Qualifying communities across Alabama, particularly those in rural areas, will have access to this new federal grant funding intended to enhance workforce development and sustainable employment opportunities.” “Rural communities face a unique set of challenges when it comes to promoting economic development and meeting workforce needs,” said Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO). “The Delta Workforce Program will provide targeted support to strengthen local economies and help people get the skills they need to compete. I’m pleased to have prioritized funding for the Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities grants in the appropriations subcommittee I chair. I’m committed to making sure rural areas have the tools and resources they need to take advantage of the opportunities that come with a growing economy.” Additional information about the Delta Workforce Program, including important dates, technical assistance workshops, and application information, is available at www.dra.gov/workforce. About the Delta Regional Authority The Delta Regional Authority is a federal-state partnership created by Congress in 2000 to help create jobs, build communities, and improve lives through strategic investments in economic development in 252 counties and parishes across eight states. DRA has approved investments of more than $211 million into more than 1,200 projects. Overall, DRA investments have estimated outcomes since 2002 that will create and retain more than 60,000 jobs, train nearly 54,000 workers to advance in the 21st Century and deliver sewer and water improvements to 400,000 residents and businesses. Learn more at dra.gov.

Sheila Harrelson began her career with the Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. (CAPDD) in 2009 as a Career Consultant with the Workforce Investment Act program (WIA). She retired in March of 2019 after ten (10) years of dedicated service. During her tenure at CAPDD, Sheila “wore many hats”. After spending a number of years working in the Lonoke Workforce Center as a Career Consultant assisting youth and adults in Lonoke County to reach their vocational and educational goals, Sheila transferred to the North Little Rock Workforce Center where she worked with a similar clientele in Pulaski County. Her next assignment was in the Conway Workforce Center where she worked as a Career Consultant serving customers who lived in Faulkner County. Sheila completed this assignment and returned to the Lonoke Workforce Center where she worked as a Job Placement Specialist with the newly commissioned Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act program (WIOA) providing Follow-Up services to all of the participants who received services throughout the Central Arkansas Workforce Development Area until her retirement. Sheila will be missed by her co-workers, as well as the program participants whom she so diligently served. All of us here at CAPDD would like to thank Sheila for her service and wish her a happy retirement.

“Employers Growing Talent through Apprenticeships” was an informational forum put on by the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services as part of National Apprenticeship Week, drew 86 attendees to the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub where State Director Lee Price signed two official registered apprenticeship agreements at the event. One program involved Arkansas breaking new apprenticeship ground with the signing of a Local Workforce Development Board as a sponsor for registered apprenticeship programs in its six-county area. Central Arkansas Planning and Development District (CAPDD) is the WIOA services provider and One-Stop operator for the region surrounding Little Rock, the state’s capitol and largest city. Representatives from the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services, the AAI and SAE Grantee in the state, introduced the idea to CAPDD management in late summer, following the model of St. Clair County, Illinois. USDOL state Office of Apprenticeship Director Lee Price signed the agreement with CAPDD Executive Director Rodney Larsen Thursday, Nov. 15, as part of a National Apprenticeship Week event titled “Employers Growing Talent through Apprenticeship,” hosted by Arkansas DWS. Initially, CAPDD will sponsor programs in industrial painting, plumbing, electrician and commercial driver’s license (CDL) with the flexibility to add more occupations over time. The second program formalized a new registered apprenticeship at First Orion for software developers of mobile telecom applications. Apprentices will start at a competitive salary and still receive a wage bump at the end of the one-year program, during which they’ll get classroom instruction in Orion’s specific job tasks and hands-on mentoring from experienced programmers. Source: www.dol.gov/apprenticeship

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Small nonfarm businesses in 11 Arkansas counties are now eligible to apply for low‑interest federal disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, announced Director Tanya N. Garfield of SBA’s Disaster Field Operations Center-West. These loans offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by hail and high winds in the following primary counties that occurred July 20-21, 2018. Primary counties: Arkansas and Monroe; Neighboring counties: Desha, Jefferson, Lee, Lincoln, Lonoke, Phillips, Prairie, St. Francis and Woodruff. “SBA eligibility covers both the economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers that have suffered agricultural production losses caused by the disaster and businesses directly impacted by the disaster,” Garfield said. Small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. “Eligibility for these loans is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. These loans have an interest rate of 3.61 percent for businesses and 2.5 percent for private nonprofit organizations, a maximum term of 30 years, and are available to small businesses and most private nonprofits without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship,” Garfield said. By law, SBA makes Economic Injury Disaster Loans available when the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture designates an agricultural disaster. The Secretary declared this disaster on Sept. 5, 2018. Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster assistance. Agricultural enterprises should contact the Farm Services Agency about the U.S. Department of Agriculture assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration. Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. The deadline to apply for economic injury is May 6, 2019. About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

By Jeanette Anderton The city of Conway is considering options on how to address drainage issues. One option officials are looking into is a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant. “The city is interested in applying for a FEMA hazard mitigation grant program to purchase and demolish houses subject to flooding,” Central Arkansas Planning and Development District Program Manager Amanda Adaire said. Residents who own property in flood zones on South Donaghey Avenue and Sugar Creek Drive received letters last week informing them of the possibility. Adaire stressed that the purchases would be voluntary and not eminent domain. “It is just for the people who want to participate,” she said. If the city is awarded the grant, the city would likely purchase and raze the properties in 2019. For more information about the grant, visit www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program. Source: https://www.thecabin.net/news/20180905/city-officials-look-at-drainage-solutions

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — Arkansas is getting $1.5 million in grants to help support business expansion and growth in the Natural State. The funds come from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration. The department says approximately $869,964 will go to the City of North Little Rock for its 6th Street expansion project, which will improve access to retail stores, restaurants, cultural centers and more. The project is expected to create 182 jobs and create lead to $12 million in private investment. Another $660,000 will go to Cleveland County for improvements to the local water system and supporting the relocation and expansion of a local lumber company and farm. This project is expected to generate more than $5 million in private investment, according to the department. "The path to a booming state economy is paved with the projects such as the leaders in North Little Rock and Cleveland County envision and execute," said Governor Asa Hutchinson. "These federal grants, which are returning Arkansas money to the state, will boost the economies in North Little Rock and Cleveland County, and further enhance the economic development and job growth we’ve enjoyed over the past four years in Arkansas." The projects were made possible through efforts by the Central Arkansas Planning and Development District and the South East Arkansas Economic Development District. Source: https://katv.com/news/local/15-million-given-to-support-business-growth-in-arkansas

Check out this newsclip about STORMBOX featuring Amanda Adaire of CAPDD. FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants are a possible funding source.

by Emily Walkenhorst Arkansas officials have collected more than 100 reports from levee districts across the state, giving state leaders a better look for the first time at what districts exist, who is on their boards and what the districts' boundaries are. After several levee-breach scares, and actual breaches and deteriorations that have allowed flooding in the past 10 years, government officials now have a better picture of the state's levee districts. However, Arkansas Natural Resources Commission Deputy Director Ryan Benefield said he believes there are still many inactive districts that the state doesn't know about yet. The Big Ditch levee in Humnoke in Lonoke County, for example, is not accounted for in state or federal databases, even though the levee was breached in March and contributed to the flooding of more than 100 homes. Officials in the area don't know who built the levee or if a district was ever in charge of it. A request for any incorporation records on a "Big Ditch" levee, drainage or improvement district hadn't resulted in any documents released from the Lonoke County Courthouse as of Friday. Sen. Jason Rapert, R-Conway, in 2016 sponsored legislation that requires county clerks to send levee district reports to the Natural Resources Commission. He said last week that people who are protected by levees or think they are should make sure their levees are served by active levee boards. Rapert spoke from personal experience. He noted that decades of neglect left the Perry County Levee District No. 1 levee inadequate. In late 2015 and in mid-2016, that levee -- which runs behind Rapert's and others' homes -- failed to protect property in the area of Bigelow and Toad Suck, resulting in crops washing out and people having to flee their homes in boats. "It's one of those things that everybody seems to ignore until there's an actual flood," Rapert said. The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported in April 2017 that 35 of the state's 66 levee systems -- or 53 percent (a stretch of 505 miles) -- were rated "unacceptable" by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. That was more than all neighboring states other than Mississippi. Of the 35, at least 28 did not have active levee boards. A 2009 legislative audit report recommended more state oversight of levees, but lawmakers never acted on the recommendation. In the years since, some levees' problems were repaired with money provided by state or federal taxpayers rather than levee districts. A federal Government Accountability Office report last year found that requirements intended to improve levees after Hurricane Katrina inundated New Orleans in 2005 have largely been unfunded or unenforced. Before last year, the only information available on Arkansas' levees was what was in the Corps' online interactive National Levee Database and on the list of levees accredited by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The Corps' data gauged levee safety, and FEMA's data indicated whether a levee met accreditation standards for purposes of exemption from flood insurance requirements. The Corps and FEMA have combined their data on the Corps' website in the past year, although FEMA's records do not include safety assessments that the Corps' data do. The Corps' new database, accessible at https://bit.ly/2P41gQz, went from identifying 67 levee systems in Arkansas to 113. The 67th levee, which was added between the time of the newspaper's analysis and the Corps' incorporation of FEMA data, was rated as "unacceptable." The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission has received reports from 107 levee districts. Levee systems refer to the entirety of a levee, which may be broken into segments and managed by different districts. Multiple districts may operate a single system, and in rare instances a district may sponsor multiple levee systems. Often, levees are sponsored by city or county agencies, not levee districts. Before merging data with FEMA, the Corps identified 81 entities as levee system sponsors. After the merger, the Corps identified 97 sponsors, plus 12 levees that had undefined or unknown sponsors. The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette examined data on levee sponsors from the Corps database and compared them with the commission's spreadsheet on levee districts. After using formulas to separate sponsors into multiple cells and correct for slight differences in spelling from each agency, the newspaper found that many of the levee districts reported to the commission did not match districts reported by the Corps, and vice versa. That means many districts have been identified that were previously unknown to the Corps, and that districts known to the Corps either did not submit levee district reports to their county clerks or the county clerks did not submit the reports after receiving them. The exact number of levee districts in Arkansas is still difficult to determine because some districts use slightly different names in each database. The total number of districts that were not duplicated on the Corps and state databases is 181. That includes government agency sponsors. The commission received reports on 89 levee districts not listed in the Corps' data. The Corps identified 92 levee districts and government sponsors not found in the commission's data. Benefield said he can tell that some districts have not filed reports because of gaps in the numbered improvement districts. For example, there may be districts 3 and 6 but no districts 4 and 5 listed in a county. "We would assume there are districts that aren't reporting," he said. "The county clerk would have the authority over someone who did not file, not the Natural Resources Commission," Benefield said. Not all counties are represented in the commission's database, and it's unknown whether all counties have levees. Alan King, president of Improvement Districts Inc., said some residents simply don't want to revive dormant levee districts. He's tried to revive one on the east side of Pulaski County, along the Arkansas River from the Port Authority down to the Jefferson County line, but landowners were not interested. That part of the levee, called the Woodson levee, is considered "unacceptable" by the Corps and protects mostly farms, King said. The upper portion, the Fourche Island Drainage District No. 2 levee, meets standards and protects the Little Rock Port Authority, among other properties. King said that just because a levee is off the radar of government officials doesn't necessarily mean that no one is keeping up with it. Farmers usually do things to shore up their nearby levees, even if those levees don't meet federal standards, he said. "They don't want their property to flood [any] more than anyone else does," King said. Lonoke County has paid for some of the repairs to the Big Ditch levee in Humnoke. Humnoke Mayor Emma Morris said the levee is not part of any district that she knows of. Amanda Adaire, director of community development for the Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, said she thinks the levee used to be run by an improvement district, but she isn't certain of that or of who built the levee. The development district worked with the city and the county to apply for a $1.2 million Delta Regional Authority grant to fix the levee and build flood protections around Humnoke, according to Adaire. The county promised $100,000 to match the grant, she said. New, better-compacting dirt that holds up longer has been placed in the breached part of the levee. Online real estate records show that the two parcels of land where the levee breached have been sold numerous times since 2004. One parcel has been sold 12 times since 2004, and the other seven times since 2005. Both are currently owned by Prairie Woods LLC of Little Rock. That business is owned by Thomas Hodges, and the parcels were deeded to the company by Thomas Hodges and Mark Lee in February, according to property records. Prairie Woods LLC was incorporated in November and is based in a house owned by a revocable trust in Hodges' name near the Little Rock Country Club. Hodges said he bought the land in Lonoke County for duck hunting and deeded it to Prairie Woods, his duck club. Lee is a partner in Prairie Woods LLC, Hodges said. Hodges said he thinks he knows who built the levee, but he doesn't have any documentation on it. He searched courthouse records and couldn't find anything related to "Big Ditch" levee, which he said runs for miles past his property. Rapert said he has not seen the commission's database on levee districts that has been compiled since his legislation was passed, but he reiterated his hope that the list will give officials a better idea of what districts are out there and how the state could better prepare for flooding. Benefield said the commission is collecting the reports and oversees loans and grants that can go to eligible districts for levee repairs and maintenance. Beyond that, he said, "our authority ... is really limited." The commission plans to work with the Corps to "catalog and characterize" the state's levees. The Corps, meanwhile, can inspect new levees and add levee-safety evaluations to its database. The agency is working to identify new levees. The Corps has funding for that work only through Sept. 30. Congress has not approved a fiscal 2019 budget, and President Donald Trump did not include such funding in his proposed budget last spring, Corps officials in Little Rock said. Elmo Webb, levee safety program manager for the Corps in Little Rock, said he has three levees that he hopes to inspect with what funding remains. Original Source: https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2018/aug/27/reports-aid-state-in-look-at-levees-201/

The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District and Western Arkansas Planning and Development District were honored with the Friend of Community Development Award, offered each year to an individual or organization that demonstrates strong support for community development and CDI. Amy Whitehead, CDI director, said, “On behalf of UCA and the CDI Advisory Board, I am pleased to recognize Brad Lacy and the planning and development districts for their consistent support of community and economic development within the state, and specifically their support of UCA’s outreach and community engagement efforts. Their involvement has been a tremendous asset in our work, and we look forward to many more years of partnership.” In addition to the awards ceremony, the week’s activities featured Ben Muldrow, Partner at Arnett Muldrow & Associates, as the CDI 2017 Keynote Speaker and tours and simulations that took participants throughout central Arkansas. The CDI Advanced Year class also worked directly with the city of Alma to assist the community in their future community and economic development efforts. A diverse group of over 130 community leaders from the mid-south region participated in the annual CDI held July 31 through Aug. 4. Please following this link for the original article: http://uca.edu/news/cdi-ends-31st-year-with-graduation-and-awards-ceremony/

The Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub is a catalyst for economic and entrepreneurial growth, workforce development, and quality of life. The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District helped fill the financing gap to complete the “Silver Mine” portion of the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub. The Silver Mine is one of three primary branches of the Innovation Hub, which serves as a place for co-working, education, technology and collaboration. The Innovation Hub has already supported countless individuals pursue their passion by turning those passions into viable business ideas and products that both fill market demand, and create it. Those ideas turn into businesses which not only add value to the regional economy, and enhance the tax base, but also create numerous jobs as the firms move from the conception phase into growth. Award-winning projects were honored during NADO’s 2016 Annual Training Conference, held October 15-18 in San Antonio, Texas. The 2016 class of award recipients consists of 96 projects spanning 28 states. These projects are presented in an interactive “Story Map” developed by NADO and Esri and include project summaries, funding information, and partners. The Story Map is available online at: https://www.nado.org/innovation-awards/. “Since 1986 through its Innovation Awards program, NADO has recognized the transformative work regional development organizations perform every day. Award-winning projects showcase best practices across the country in regional development that support prosperous communities, stronger local economies, and improved quality of life for residents,” said 2015-2016 NADO Board President Jeffrey Kiely, Executive Director of the Northwest New Mexico Council of Governments, located in Gallup, New Mexico. Since 1967 the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) has provided advocacy, education, networking, and research for the national network of 540 regional development organizations. NADO members provide professional, programmatic, and technical assistance to over 2,300 counties and 15,000 municipalities.